Advice on Buying a Used Bass

[eljanitor]

I was wondering if anyone could help me out here. I haven't played Bass in maybe 15 years. Ive focused most of my time when its available to playing the regular 6 string guitar. I used to play both, and recently I just want to pick up Bass again.

So I'm going to go look at buying a used Bass, which is something I've never done before either. I've always bought my axes new, because you just never know what someone has done to the one their selling, and why they may want to get rid of it. Music stores always offer a warranty for defective equipment, but private parties are sold as is.

So back in the late 90's I remember I bought a Bass and the tech snapped the truss rod at the music store. So he said that he didn't do it and it was a defect etc, and the store offered to get me an exchange for free. However that's when I remember learning what the signs of a broken truss rod are. I was told that if the truss rod is broken when you apply pressure to the neck and bend it slightly you'll hear it rattling against the fret board, or a loud clicking noise. I was told a good truss rod makes no noise. Not to mention you can see the ridiculous bow in the neck when the truss rod has snapped too.

So what should I look for when buying an electric bass from a private party? I don't care much about a few dings and scratches. However what should I look for just to know that someone isn't trying to pass off a broken piece of junk on me?

[Stumbo]

Think about buying one for sale on TB.

[Marginal Tom]

Broken or maxed out truss rods. Twists, waves, dips or humps in the fretboard. Worn-out frets. Dead spots. Poorly fitted neck pockets. Faulty electronics. Aftermarket changes that may reduce rather than enhance the value of the bass. Also check the tuners and bridge for potential problems. Then have the bass set up professionally, unless you consider yourself competent to do it.